Contents:
Medical Video: Preparation of 10% KOH
Definition
What is preparation for cohes (potassium hydroxide)?
Preparation of KOH (potassium hydroxide) is useful for finding out whether there is a fungal infection on the skin. Doctors obtain tissue samples using a scalpel or other tool. Heat and KOH are then used in the sample to dissolve keratin — fiber protein which is the main component of the nail — and the skin cells that make keratin. After this substance has been removed, the fungal element can be detected under a microscope.
When do I need to take a potassium hydroxide preparation test?
If you have itchy, red, or scaly skin with a blister that looks blister at the end, a KOH test might be done to find out if you have a skin fungal infection.
Prevention & warning
What should I know before undergoing preparation for koh (potassium hydroxide)?
The doctor may know whether you have a fungal infection with the appearance of a rash and may not need to do the KOH test. If the sample is too small or taken from an area not infected with fungi, false negative results may be obtained. The use of previous antifungal drugs may also give false negative results.
Process
What should I do before undergoing preparation for koh (potassium hydroxide)?
No special preparation is needed for this test.
What is the process for the potassium hydroxide preparation test?
Skin samples were taken by slightly scratching the infected area. If the skin is where the infection is suspected, the doctor will scratch the abnormal outer skin layer with a scalpel. If the scalp is affected, the doctor will gently take the affected hair with scissors and also scratch the scalp with a scalpel. For nail infections, the examiner scratches the surface of the inner nail under the tip or cuts part of the nail that looks abnormal.
What should I do after the potassium hydroxide preparation test?
You may experience a slight discomfort when the sample is being collected. Collection of samples takes about 1 minute, and the results are usually valid in 10 minutes. You can return to your original activities after you finish the test. The doctor will discuss with you about the condition and provide appropriate treatment. Sometimes, the doctor may order further examination. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully.
Explanation of Test Results
What do the test results mean?
Normal
There is no fungus in skin samples. If the results are negative, the doctor may take a second sample or order fungal cell sampling.
Abnormal
There is fungus in skin samples. If the fungal organism is detected under a microscope, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate antifungal medication. In some cases, taking fungal cells may be done to ascertain the results or identify a particular type of fungus.
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